After more than 14 remarkable years at the YWCA, JoAnne Fahr, a cherished colleague and friend, is retiring. We asked JoAnne to reflect on her experiences at the YWCA and what inspired her to become a legacy donor.
A proud prairie girl from Melville, Saskatchewan, JoAnne fondly recalls her childhood filled with sports, outdoor activities and school achievements. She attended the University of Saskatchewan with aspirations to become a social worker. JoAnne met her future husband, Terry, on the local ski slopes and after getting married, the couple moved to BC in 1978.
As a young mom, JoAnne’s passion for helping others led her to volunteer and work at various social service charities. In 2010, she joined the YWCA to fill a maternity leave position, a decision that would turn into a lasting career.
"Fourteen-and-a-half years later, I’ve broken my short attention span record, thanks entirely to my incredible boss, Brenda, and the amazing colleagues, participants, and donors I’ve met along the way," JoAnne shares.
JoAnne’s work at the YWCA was especially rewarding, particularly the opportunity to connect with donors. Her favourite memories are when someone would tell her they were adding the YWCA to their will. “Leaving a bequest to the YWCA may be the best thing you ever do. Any size is welcome and imagine the impact it will have on future generations," she says. JoAnne and Terry made their own decision to add the YWCA to their will in 2012.
As JoAnne moves into retirement, she looks forward to more travelling, hiking and time spent with friends and family, including her five grandchildren. We thank JoAnne for her dedication and legacy. Her effervescent humour and kindness will be missed, and the impact she has had on the YWCA community will always be remembered.
To discuss Legacy Giving with the YWCA, please call or email Angela Turner at aturner@ywcavan.org or 604 895 5864.
